Texas Pools Open Now, One Abilene Favorite Is Still Closed

When the Texas sun starts baking the Big Country, the only way to beat the heat is to dive into a cool swimming pool. While some pools are opening across Abilene with updated hours and prices, one fan-favorite won’t be opening for yet another summer.

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As someone who swims with one arm (yes, I may swim in circles but I’m still doing laps,) I thought it was time to update and get the latest information on where you can splash around in and around Abilene this summer. And yes, some of these spots are absolutely worth revisiting every year.

LOOK: These Are The Best Places in Abilene to Go Swimming See For Yourself

These are the best places in and around Abilene to get wet and stay cool.

Gallery Credit: Rudy Fernandez

Rose Park Adventure Cove Is Open and Making Waves

This one is always a hit with families, especially the kids. Adventure Cove at Rose Park is back for the 2025 season. The fun officially launches with regular hours starting May 23rd.

Adventure Cove Hours:

Sunday & Monday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Admission Prices:

Ages 2 & under: FREE
Kids under 48”: $4
Kids over 48”: $6
Adults 18+: $7

The Cove features two slides — the Big Green Monster and Big Blue — plus a beach-style pool, a lazy river, a full-service snack bar (no outside food allowed), and splash zones. Expect it to close for the season in early September.

Abilene State Park Pool Stays Closed in 2025

Here’s the splash of bad news: The historic pool at Abilene State Park — once the crown jewel for summer swimming — is closed again this year. In fact, this marks the third summer in a row.

The good news? Construction finally started this week. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed that they’re fully renovating the nearly 100-year-old pool, replacing everything from the tile and coping to the old pump system. It’s expected to reopen in 2026, better and safer than ever.

Abilene Swim Club Offers Classic Fun — If You’re a Member

This one’s private, but if you’re a member (or know someone who is), you’re in for a treat. The Abilene Swim Club features the only high dive still operating in Abilene, fun water slides, and shaded picnic areas.

Hours (Starting May 23):

Daily: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Membership:
Yearly dues: $325
One-time joining fee: $160
Guest passes: $5 (must be with a member)

This pool is truly family-friendly and great for long summer days under the shade trees.

Lytle Shores Swim Club Still Making a Splash

Formerly known as The Dive Spot, Lytle Shores Swim Club continues to serve West Texas families looking for a laid-back place to cool off.

Hours:

Monday through Friday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Admission:

Ages 2 and under: Free (with paid adult)
Everyone else: $4

Besides the pool, they’ve got sand volleyball, a jungle gym, and even swim lessons and scuba classes. You’ll find it at 1701 Lytle Trail.

The YMCA Indoor Pool Keeps It Cool All Year

If you’re not a fan of blazing sun or unpredictable weather, the indoor pool at the YMCA is your go-to. Great for lap swimming, lessons, and family time.

Open Swim Times:

Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM & 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM & 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Membership plans vary, and they offer programs for all ages — including swim classes and fitness options.

Splash Pads Around Abilene Are Always Free and Always Fun

For little ones (or grown-ups who just want to cool their feet), the city’s splash pads are open every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. You’ll find them at:

Nelson Park
Scarborough Park
Stevenson Park

They’re open now through the end of October, weather permitting, and best of all, they’re 100% free!

Final Thought: Stay Cool, Texas

Whether you’re a cannonballer, a lazy river floater, or like me, a one-armed swimmer who doesn’t mind going in circles just to cool off, these pools are part of what makes Abilene and West Texas a great place to spend the summer.

And one quick tip directly from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (yes, they said this on their official site and Facebook page):

"In direct sunlight in 80-degree weather, concrete and asphalt can reach temperatures well over 100 degrees. That’s really hot on your pup’s paws! If you're ever unsure if the ground is safe for them to walk on, try holding your hand on the surface while counting to 5-Mississippi. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your fuzzy friend."

That’s a great reminder to take care of our four-legged buddies while we're out enjoying the sunshine.